The 2024 All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA) Forum, hosted by the Canadian Government, provided a platform for international collaboration and innovative discussions on the future of Atlantic Ocean research. This annual gathering brought together ocean science experts, policymakers and early-career professionals from across the Atlantic basin to share achievements and chart new research directions.

Representing South Africa, SAEON made significant contributions to discussions on science engagement, inclusivity and diversity in ocean research.

Championing inclusivity and science engagement

Professor Juliet Hermes, manager of SAEON’s Egagasini Node, played a key role in the forum, moderating the session on diversity and inclusion and participating in two panels focused on cross-cutting themes in ocean science. Prof. Hermes showcased SAEON’s achievements in science engagement, highlighting programmes that make marine science accessible to diverse audiences, including historically underrepresented communities.

Through its science engagement programme, SAEON links marine science to South Africa’s national education curriculum in subjects like geography, mathematics and life sciences. This approach fosters early exposure to ocean science for young learners and promotes an understanding of the ocean as part of the larger Earth system.

Additionally, initiatives like the SEAmester Programme (link to latest article), in partnership with the University of Cape Town, provide hands-on learning experiences aboard research vessels, enabling students and educators to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world oceanography.

By translating complex marine science into accessible formats and integrating indigenous knowledge systems into research frameworks, SAEON is driving inclusivity and reshaping the relationship between science and society. Prof. Hermes emphasised the importance of respecting cultural contexts, building trust with communities and addressing the legacy of colonial exploitation in ocean science.

Prof. Hermes also served as a mentor in the Forum’s Intergenerational Session, guiding a group of early-career professionals in developing a policy note presented to the AAORIA board. This collaboration provided invaluable capacity-building opportunities for emerging professionals, fostering the development of fresh ideas to address global ocean challenges.

Inspiring future ocean leaders

Mathabo Malange (lecturer at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology) and Dr Siyabulela Hamnca (researcher at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), who were funded through ADSTI and SAEON to attend as early-career ocean professionals, took part in the mentorship session. They also participated in a school outreach session at Lisgar Collegiate Institute in Ottawa. Engaging with Grade 12 biology students, they shared insights into ocean-related career paths and encouraged the next generation of ocean scientists.

Strengthening partnerships for future collaboration

The SAEON delegation, including Prof. Hermes, Mathabo Malange, Nicole du Plessis and Dr Hamnca, attended critical AAORIA and OKEANO consortium meetings. These discussions laid the groundwork for hosting the 2025 OKEANO Advisory Mechanism in South Africa and further strengthened South Africa’s role in international ocean research.

The team also participated in high-level engagements, including a diplomatic event at the Irish Embassy, where they networked with international policymakers and scientists. These interactions helped reinforce South Africa’s commitment to collaborative and inclusive ocean science.

Looking ahead

Building on the outcomes of the 2024 Forum, SAEON will continue to champion initiatives that bridge the gap between science and society, with a focus on diversity, inclusion and community engagement. With upcoming opportunities such as the OKEANO Advisory Mechanism in 2025 and participation in Brazil’s Oceans20 gathering (link to article), SAEON remains committed to advancing sustainable ocean practices through collaboration and innovation.

SAEON extends its gratitude to AAORIA, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, and the National Research Foundation for their support and funding, which made this impactful participation possible.